Keeping your home secure goes beyond just locking doors and windows. Sometimes, it’s the unexpected details that can signal to burglars that your house is an easy target. Here are five random but serious red flags that could make your home more appealing to thieves.
1. Overgrown Garden Gnome
Having an overgrown garden can do more than just upset your neighbors; it can also serve as a signal to burglars that you might be away.
An unkempt lawn, along with a garden gnome that appears more like a sentinel of neglect, whispers tales of an inattentive homeowner. Your best defense? Keep your greenery trimmed.
However, if gardening isn’t your thing, hiring a landscaper might be the way to go. A tidy exterior not only boosts curb appeal but also sends the message that someone is home and active.
2. Old Newspapers Accumulation
A towering stack of old newspapers piling up on your front porch is more than just an eyesore.
It suggests that the homeowners are either away on vacation or simply indifferent to their surroundings. This accumulation signals to burglars that no one is around to notice their lurking.
To avoid this, pause your newspaper delivery while you’re away or ask a neighbor to collect them. Keeping the entryway clear shows that someone is regularly coming and going.
3. Dark House
A dark house at night is like a siren call to burglars. When your house is completely unlit, it screams ‘nobody’s home’ to any potential intruder passing by.
Think about it: a house that shows no sign of life draws unwanted attention. It suggests you’re either not home or not paying attention, both of which are attractive scenarios for burglars.
Consider using timers for your lights or investing in smart home technology that allows you to control your lighting remotely. A well-lit home is a safer home, deterring those with ill intent.
4. Garage Sale Leftovers
Leftover items from a garage sale can signal to burglars that a homeowner might not be vigilant about their belongings. A driveway or yard cluttered with unsold goods can appear as if the owners are overwhelmed or inattentive.
This apparent neglect can encourage burglars to explore further, checking for other signs of lax security. To prevent this, ensure you clear away unsold items promptly after a sale.
Properly storing or donating leftovers can help maintain a tidy exterior, reducing the chance of attracting unwanted visitors.
5. Fake Security Signs
Fake security signs might seem like a clever deterrent, but they can backfire if not maintained properly. Burglars are often wise to signs of neglect, such as faded or outdated security notices, and may take this as an indication that the security system is not real.
An old or weathered fake sign can be an invitation rather than a warning. To avoid this pitfall, consider investing in a genuine, up-to-date security system, complete with clear and current signage.
By doing so, you can ensure that your home appears properly protected.